Catching Up with Paolo Nutini

Soulful Scottish singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini's 2006 debut, These Streets, sold more than 2 million copies and earned him a gig opening for the Rolling Stones (he was just 19 at the time). We chatted with the comely crooner, now on tour in support if his optimistically titled sophomore effort, Sunny Side Up, following his sold-out show at NYC's Terminal 5. —Erin Clements

How would you describe your music?

Urban folk.

Is Sunny Side Up a big departure from These Streets?

I think the production is the main difference. It's been given a lot more TLC than the first one.

How was the recording experience different with this one?

I had nothing else going on. This was all I had to do: make a record. There were fewer people wanting to hear songs and trying to manipulate them, and a lot less record-company involvement, which was good.

Where did you record the album?

We recorded the first half in a place in Ireland called Grouse Lodge. We then recorded in Rockfield in Wales and we tied the rest up in a place in Bath called Real World Studios.

You opened for the Rolling Stones at the Isle of Wright Festival in 2007. How was that?

It was an honor—very humbling. But you know, I don't ask too many questions, I just sang a song. We did a version of the song "Love in Vain."

What was Mick like?

When I met him, I think he was on good behavior.

What other musicians would you like to collaborate with?

Bill Withers.

What's your favorite city to tour in?

I like Colorado—Boulder and Vail. There's a good vibe. There's a steady supply of Miller High Life, and you can sit in the Jacuzzi while it's snowing. That's what it's all about.

What's the worst advice you've gotten?

There was a song we sang, "The Rich Folks." It's a pretty condescending song about really wealthy people. We got on set and someone asked if we were doing it, and I was like, "Yeah," not realizing that we were doing the performance in the Hamptons.

Any ideas for the direction you want your next album to take?

It'll probably be the best record yet—I can sense it. A lot of collaborations, guest spots. Timbaland is going to produce it. Fergie will do background vocals. It's going to be genius. I'm going to take over the world.

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